VOLUNTEER beauticians boosted the confidence of North-East cancer sufferers at a charity event held today (Tuesday, March 11).

Cancer treatment takes its toll in many ways – whether it’s through the aches and pains of chemotherapy, emotional strain or drastic changes to physical appearance through side effects like hair loss, many sufferers are left feeling like a shadow of their former selves.

In a bid to boost the confidence and well-being of those undergoing treatment, the Look Good, Feel Better charity hosted a free make-up masterclass at Darlington’s Bannatyne Hotel.

Fifteen women, at varying stages of treatment, enjoyed a spot of pampering courtesy of trained beauticians as they were offered advice on dealing with the visible side effects of cancer.

The women enjoyed refreshments and the chance to make new friends as they were taught how to mask eyebrow loss, keep skin supple and disguise dark circles.

Ovarian cancer sufferer Lesley Lund, from Darlington, added: “It’s awful living with your own mortality, it affects everything you do.

“It’s had a big impact on my self-image. I lost my hair and wasn’t able to colour it, it affects things that you usually take for granted and this has made me feel normal again.

“It has given me a boost, especially being with other people who know exactly what I’m going through and it’s a bit of me time.”

Darlington mother Elizabeth Smith, 48, is battling breast cancer. She said: “You just have to get on and cope with things but you can feel very low.